Download our free delivery receipt template in Excel, Word, Google Sheets, Google Docs, or PDF format.
Designed for small businesses, non-profits, and others handling local deliveries, this template provides a proof of delivery form that's easy to customize and use. Just download the format you prefer, and edit it as you need. We’ve included a space to add your company logo as well as contact information and other delivery details.
Download options
- Excel (.xlsx) [Download]
- Word (.docx) [Download]
- Google Sheets [Make a copy]
- Google Docs [Make a copy]
- Printable PDF [Download]
Whatever download option you choose, remember to save a copy to your local system. You can edit the forms as much as you like to customize them for your business needs.
What's included
- Company details and contact information
- Delivery person information
- Recipient information
- Table with description of the items delivered
- Signature spaces for proof of delivery
- Order reference number field
How to use this template
- Download your preferred format.
- Enter your company name and contact details in the header and save the template.
- Fill in delivery-specific information for each order.
- You can print out the delivery receipt form for each customer, or use an electronic version on a tablet — whichever is easiest for you.
- Have the delivery person and customer sign upon successful delivery.
- Save for your records.
Pro tip: Consider delivery management software
Paper delivery receipts work for basic needs. But they also have a lot of downsides: they make each delivery take more time, and they’re easy to lose or damage.
If offering a delivery service is an important part of your business, you can save time and money by switching to electronic proof of delivery.
Delivery management apps like Routific offer:
- Digital proof of delivery via signature or photograph
- Real-time tracking through the delivery process
- Automated record-keeping.
💡 See for yourself! Try Routific free for 7 days to see how easy delivery planning and management can be.
What’s the difference between a delivery receipt and proof of delivery?
A delivery receipt is just one type of proof of delivery (POD). POD can take the form of a photo, digital signature, or electronic confirmation. A delivery receipt is a document that records the successful transfer of goods from the courier or delivery driver to the recipient.
Why some businesses still use paper receipts
Some organizations still use paper delivery receipts for a variety of reasons:
- Legal requirements in some regulated industries
- Integration with existing paper-based systems
- Backup during system outages
- Protection against chargebacks
- Customer preferences
Even some businesses that use digital delivery management may keep some paper receipts on hand as backup!
The shift to digital proof of delivery
Modern businesses typically use a combination of POD methods:
- Digital signatures on mobile devices
- Photo documentation of deliveries
- GPS location verification
- Automated email confirmations
- Electronic record storage
Digital solutions have many advantages:
- Real-time delivery confirmation
- Protection against false claims
- Faster dispute resolution
- Integration with payment systems
- Automated record-keeping
What information goes on a delivery receipt?
Every delivery receipt needs these basic parts:
- The company's name and phone number
- Delivery address where items are going
- A list of what's being delivered
- Spaces for signatures from both the delivery person and the customer
- Date and time of delivery
- Order number to track the delivery
You can add more information based on what your business needs, like special delivery instructions.
Tips for using delivery receipts
For delivery drivers
- Fill out all parts of the receipt before starting your route
- Take a photo of the signed receipt as backup
- Write clearly, especially on carbon copy forms
- Note any damage to packages
- Get a clear signature from the customer
For business owners
- Print extra copies of blank receipts for backup
- Number your receipts to track them easily
- Keep digital scans of paper receipts
- Train drivers on proper documentation
- Check receipts at the end of each day
For customers
- Check items match what's listed on the receipt
- Take a photo of the signed receipt
- Write down any damage before signing
- Keep your copy in a safe place
- Ask for a digital copy if possible
Common questions about delivery receipts
What's the difference between a delivery receipt and a delivery note?
A delivery receipt proves that items were delivered, and must include a recipient signature. A delivery note is simpler — it just lists what's in the package. Many businesses use both to track their deliveries better.
How is a delivery receipt different from a sales receipt?
A delivery receipt proves that items were successfully handed over to the customer. A sales receipt shows that items were paid for. They serve different purposes:
A delivery receipt shows who received the items, when, and in what condition.
A sales receipt or cash receipt shows:
- The unit price for each item
- How many were ordered
- The total amount paid
- What payment method was used
- Any taxes charged.
It may sometimes include a purchase order number, if that’s relevant.
Many businesses need both: the sales receipt for their accounting records, and the delivery receipt to prove the items reached the customer. For example, if a customer pays for their order online, they'll get a sales receipt right away. But they'll only get the delivery receipt after their items arrive.
Do I need to keep copies of delivery receipts?
Yes. Keep delivery receipts for at least a year. Some businesses need to keep them longer, especially if they deliver food or medical items. If you're not sure, check with your accountant.
Can I make my own delivery receipt?
Yes. You can create a delivery receipt in Microsoft Word, Excel, or Google Sheets. But using a template (like the free one above) saves time and makes sure you don't forget important information.
Frequently Asked Questions
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